Getting torch to follow contour

[AM Machine]

I am building a CNC plasma cutter using an old Komo CNC router with Fanuc controls and a thermo dynamics plasma cutter. It's kind of a frankenstein of sorts. I am wonder what I can buy that will control the z-axis and allow the torch to follow the contour of a wavy sheet of metal so that the torch is always at optimum distance for cutting.

For example. If the sheet is bowed up in the middle I dont want the torch dragging across the sheet. Also an example would be cutting a section of large pipe so that the torch would have to follow the radius.

I hope this makes sense. I believe that I am trying to say that I want a way to automatically control the tip to work distance. Any help is greatly appreciated.

jeff

[AM Machine]

I think I have found what I am looking for. Torch Mate has an arc voltage height control that will integrate with my Thrermo Dynamics Ultracut 100.

jeff

[jimcolt]

Torch height control systems have been available for plasma systems since the 1970's. There are a lot of different varieties, features, performance levels, as well as prices. A good THC will have Initial Height Sensing (IHS) to find the surface of the plate before each cut cycle, Pierce Height....retracting from the surface to the plasma torch manufacturers suggested pierce height , cut height...quick index (after the pierce is complete) from pierce height to manufacturers suggested cut height, and Arc Voltage Control (AVC)....which is real time arc voltage based height once the cutting machine achieves its contour speed.

Torchmate, Hypertherm, Kaliburn are a few brands of torch height control systems. Here is a link to the Hypertherm torch height control systems.

http://www.hypertherm.com/en/Product...rols/index.jsp

Jim Colt

[plain ol Bill]

Jeff check out CandCNC.com for a thc before you put out a lot of $$ for equipment.